Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar S-Type.
Vehicle Philosophy:
Blend of sporty driving dynamics and luxury comfort, characteristic of BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides access to factory-level repair and maintenance information, empowering users to maintain their vehicle effectively and potentially save on repair costs.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic & manual), clutch, driveline, differentials.
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, DSC), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), lighting systems, instrument cluster, infotainment, climate control, power accessories, starter, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, bumpers, exterior trim, structural components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding procedures, component testing.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair.
Technical Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, with detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Quality:
High-resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams, text, and images.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
Text Search:
Fully searchable PDF text for quick information retrieval.
Bookmark Structure:
Likely includes bookmarks for easy navigation through sections and chapters.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)
ECU:
Bosch Motronic ME9.0
Emission Control:
Dual-stage catalytic converters, Oxygen sensors (pre and post-catalytic converter), secondary air injection system.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent)
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (GS6-37BZ)
Type:
6-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GA6HP-19Z)
Automatic Modes:
Standard Drive (D), Sport (S) modes, Manual selection via shifter (SMG-like functionality).
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron VI (or specified BMW ATF)
Manual Fluid Type:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent GL-4 SAE 75W-80)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist.
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver/passenger), front side-impact airbags, head protection system (HPS).
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.
System Name:
iDrive Infotainment System
Features:
Central display screen, rotary commander controller, navigation (optional), radio, CD player, climate control integration.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) with braking function.
Parking Assistance:
Optional front and rear Park Distance Control (PDC), optional rearview camera.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system.
Headlights:
Standard Halogen headlights, optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, based on Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 100,000 miles for long-life spark plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (BMW recommends DOT 4 LV).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-01FE approved)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts)
Common Problems:
Valve stem seals (oil consumption), CCV system failure (oil leaks, rough idle), VANOS solenoids, ignition coils, water pump failure, cooling system leaks (plastic components), electronic issues (idrive, sensors).
Recommended Preventative Maintenance:
Regular CCV system inspection and potential replacement, proactive coolant hose and water pump checks, monitoring oil consumption.
Brand Focus:
Renowned for performance, engineering, and luxury, with a strong motorsport heritage.
Generation:
E60 generation, representing a significant redesign from the previous E39 chassis.
Design Philosophy:
Introduced a more contemporary and aggressive styling, featuring BMW's characteristic 'flame surfacing' design language.
Production Years E60:
2003-2010
Manufacturing Location:
Dingolfing, Germany
Ward Best Engines:
The M54 engine family received multiple 'Ward's 10 Best Engines' awards in earlier iterations, recognized for its smooth operation and performance.
Automotive Journal Reviews:
Generally praised for its refined driving experience, powerful inline-six engine, and high-quality interior, though early iDrive system usability was a point of contention for some reviewers.